Industrial energy use in Asia

Industrial energy demand with a 40% share dominates the final energy demand in Asia. Energy demand in this sector has grown at an average growth rate of 4.5% per year since 1990 but there is significant regional variation in demand. East Asia with Chinese influence dominates the Asian industrial scene. Manufacturing activities play an important role in the industrial energy demand and the growth of export-oriented manufacturing base in the region has been responsible for faster energy demand growth. In terms of fuel use, coal is widely used as the source of energy but electricity has seen significant rise in its share as well. High reliance on coal has caused widespread environmental issues, particularly in industrial towns and cities of the region. Energy intensity has fallen in the sector but there is significant scope for further improvement in energy efficiency.